Day trippin': The Little River town of Parkville

At the Missouri River’s bend, Parkville is known for its antique shops, art galleries, and historic downtown, but there is much more for visitors to enjoy.

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By Norine Albers

The Lake News Online

By Norine Albers

Posted Sep. 7, 2013 at 1:00 PM

By Norine Albers
Posted Sep. 7, 2013 at 1:00 PM

Lake area

At the Missouri River’s bend, Parkville is known for its antique shops, art galleries, and historic downtown, but there is much more for visitors to enjoy.

It’s hard to imagine when looking across the peaceful river into the tree-lined opposite shore that Metro Kansas City is just off to the left of the visitors’ gaze. The town is named after its first post master, George Park. He purchased the steamboat landing site in 1838.

Park then organized their first Presbyterian Church and began their first newspaper, the Industrial Luminary.

In 1855, pro-slavery folks tossed the printing press into the Missouri River. But, the old newspaper has been revived and publishes under the name of the Parkville Luminary.

His final legacy was to give land on which Park University is located.

Once a scruffy river’s edge, the English Landing in Parkville is now a 68-acre riverbank park. Visitors can stop to “rest a spell” or use one of the long walking trails.

There is a boat ramp, picnic shelters, a disc golf course, and baseball and soccer fields within the park.

Throughout history, the town has had its share of flooding and historical events.

The quaint little downtown is a mixture of historical structures. In the 1800’s the population was a bit over four hundred, today the number is a bit over four thousand.

There are numerous very appealing coffee shops, restaurants, cafes, and a really good selection of shopping experiences that are all within walking distance.

Frank’s Italian Restaurant of Parkville is a must-visit stop for an excellent meal.

Established in 1931 the menu entices the patron with a vast selection of authentic old Sicilian recipes. Meals are always fresh and are prepared in the restaurant’s own kitchen. Meals are served inside or on the outside terrace. And dessert! Visitors must try the homemade Italian Tiramisu. Add a cup of coffee and your meal will be complete!

Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner selections. For a complete menu visit franksofparkville.com.

A visit to the university is a must-see for visitors.

It sits comfortably on a high bluff overlooking the Missouri River.

The college was founded to train Presbyterian missionaries.

Students helped build many of the structures on campus including the magnificent, stone McKay Hall with its steeples and clock tower.

The grand home of the Park family is now the alumni center.

Experience how today’s Parkville “flirts with the past” with “beautiful neighborhoods, vibrant shops and incredible restaurants that offer traditional to trendy and everything in between!”